Journal or Publishing Institution: Ministry of Environment and Forests
Author(s): Kranthi, K.R.
Article Type: Report
Record ID: 1284
Abstract: Respected Sir,
Kindly find herewith a review of Bt-cotton benefits and concerns in India. The manuscript contains details of the experiences with the technology in India, and can be extended into a complete book. However I would like to highlight the following points and concerns for your kind consideration:
- There is a need for a “National Biosafety Institute” that can conduct all tests (biochemical, molecular, animal safety, microbial studies, etc.) needed for a GM crop at a single place. The institute can conduct baseline studies and also monitoring for development of insect resistance.
- With the state of art technologies, biosafety with GM crops is no longer a major concern, since the science of introducing single genes for protein production in the GM crops is very precise.
- However, there have been stewardship problems in India.
- We could have harnessed the benefits in a much better manner if the number of hybrids would not have been more than 10 each for each of the 13 agro-eco sub zones in which cotton is grown.
- Insect Resistance Management strategies have been recommended for GM cotton and GM Brinjal in India, but require to be refined based on good science and logistics of India Farming systems so that farmers adopt them easily.
I have no hesitation in supporting the Bt-Brinjal technology and am sure that we will improve in future based on what we learn today. Congratulations for infusing scientific energy and absolute democracy into the GM release proceedings. Thanks for this opportunity.
With Respectful Regards,
Kranthi
Citation: Kranthi, K.R., 2010. Bt cotton-A critical appraisal: Annexure to Bt brinjal decision note. Ministry of Environment and Forests, pp. 180-190.
